Minister Predicts Gradual Return To Normality

Spain’s Minister of Finance has given assurances that after the 26th April life in Spain will gradually return to normal. María Jesús Montero says that when the current lockdown period ends, there will not be a sudden lifting of restrictions, but a controlled return to normality.

“We cannot take anything for granted at this time, only the extension until April 26” Ms. Montero says. “From there the de-escalation will develop, the way in which citizens will gradually be able to recover, in an orderly way, their normal lives in the streets and the squares, all in a very orderly manner, so that there are no peaks and so there is no return to the infections ”

María Jesús Montero is Spain’s Finance Minister.

Infection Rates In Spain Plateau

The daily infection rate for COVID-19 has reached a plateau in Spain as experts say we are now seeing the benefits of the tough lockdown restrictions. Yesterday there were 5267 new cases of the virus, compared to a peak of 8271 on the 26th March.

The number of people who are dying from coronavirus has also been slowing. The daily death rate was 704 yesterday, falling from a peak of 961 on the 2nd April.

There are more than 135,000 cases of coronavirus in Spain.

More than 146,000 Coronavirus Cases In Spain

Spain has registered 146,690 confirmed cases of the coronavirus. 14,555 people have died from the virus in Spain, whilst 48,021 have recovered. In Andalucia there are 8997 cases of the coronavirus, 1932 of those are in the Malaga area.

Lockdown Must Be Maintained

British doctor Anna Clifton says“The trend is positive. We’re seeing a steady decline in the number of new cases each day which means that the worst could now be behind us.”

“However, we mustn’t be complacent,” Dr. Clifton continues. “It’s more important than ever that all of us here in Spain respect the lockdown conditions. We may have turned a corner, but the virus could see a resurgence if we don’t maintain the lockdown situation.”

The PM has confirmed another extension to the lockdown period.

The Lockdown In Spain

The Prime Minister announced details of the lockdownwhich mean people are only permitted to leave their homes in the following circumstances:

Travel for food or medical supplies

Travel to your workplace (if your work one of the businesses permitted to open)

Visiting health centres of hospitals

Assisting the elderly and vulnerable

Visiting financial institutions and banks

Personal emergencies

Lockdown Period

The lockdown will remain in place until the 26th April at the earliest. Police are likely to stop and question anyone who they believe may not be abiding by the rules. The government also has the right to draft in army support if civil unrest becomes an issue.

Coronavirus Mortality Rate

The mortality rate for coronavirus currently stands at around 3.4% globally (source: WHO). In direct comparison, the flu has a mortality rate of around 1% (source: WHO).

Experts maintain that there is no need for panic, and whilst infection can be unpleasant it is very unlikely to be fatal for anyone in good health.

Frequent hand washing is advised to help protect yourself from catching coronavirus.

Protect Yourself From Coronavirus

There are some simple steps you can take to minimise your risk of catching the coronavirus. The CDC has issued these guidelines:

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.

Stay home when you are sick.

Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

It is not not recommended that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19 (coronavirus).